The Galapagos: Sea Lions And Iguanas And Tortoises! Oh My!

Without a doubt, the Galapagos Islands are known for their incredible wildlife. Visitors can get up close and personal with all kinds of animals and see species that can’t be found anywhere else on the planet.

What animals were our favorites? You guessed it! Sea lions, iguanas, and tortoises. These can best be seen on Isabela Island, the largest of the islands that make up the Galapagos. Most visitors stay on Santa Cruz island, as it is the most inhabited, but it is pretty easy to find a ferry that will take you out to Isabela and back.

While you’re on Isabela, you can visit the Centro de Crianza Arnaldo Tupiza, Isabela’s Tortoise Breeding Center. There are SO many tortoises walking around, eating, and even… getting frisky…

While exploring the islands you’re also bound to run into iguanas. These were different than the iguanas I’m used to seeing in Florida. These looked… prehistoric…

And, of course, there are the sea lions. These cuties just love to lounge around and they don’t care what’s going on around them. I’m telling you, these guys have got it made…

The amount of animals you can see in the Galapagos is surreal though. Besides these three favorites, we also saw dolphins, sharks, stingrays, crabs, and a huge variety of birds (including flamingos). So if you’re an animal lover, you need to visit the Galapagos.

A few tips:

– Although most animals are used to humans and will allow you to get pretty close, remember that these are still wild animals.

– Bring sunblock. You’re on the equator, so the sun is pretty brutal. Trust me.

– If you get seasick at all, I’d recommend taking some Dramamine. The trips between islands can get a bit choppy.

– Have cash on you for snacks and souvenirs. Most places only take cash and there are only a few ATMs.

– Please, please, please remember where you are. Don’t litter or do anything that could hurt the wildlife of this amazing habitat.

Have you been to the Galapagos? What animal was your favorite? We’d love to read your comments below! 🙂

How amazingly cool!! We visited Palomino Island in Puerto Rico and saw a TON of iguanas- some of them being crazy big. But no turtles or sea lions there. I have only read about the Galapagos in books, but how amazing that you got to visit there and experience this in person. 🙂

Man, I am dying to go to the Galapagos. The seals are so cute! We have seals here too and they are passive but you are right they are still wild animals and should be treated as such. Great tips and photos, hoping to get there at some point in the next couple years!

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Hi! I'm Vicky, a South Florida-based blogger traveling around the world with my stuffed monkey Buddy. Tired of the 9-5, we recently sold all of our stuff and started traveling full time. Click on the photo to learn more!